Massive Protests Sweep Europe After Attack on Gaza Aid Flotilla
Large-scale demonstrations erupted across Europe as thousands of people marched in Rome and Athens following an Israeli operation against the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid toward Gaza.
In Italy, protests spread across multiple cities including Rome, Milan, Naples, and Turin, where labor unions and civil society groups organized a nationwide strike under the slogan “We block everything.”
Demonstrators voiced opposition to rising living costs, increased military spending, and government policies they say support continued conflict, while also expressing solidarity with the Gaza-bound flotilla.
In Rome, thousands gathered at Piazza dei Cinquecento waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans in support of the humanitarian mission before marching toward Piazza San Giovanni.
Similar protests unfolded in Athens, where hundreds assembled outside the Foreign Ministry building to condemn the interception of flotilla vessels and demand the release of detained activists.
The Israeli military reportedly intercepted the flotilla in international waters, detaining around 100 activists aboard vessels attempting to break the long-standing blockade on Gaza.
The mission included more than 50 boats and 426 participants from 39 countries, including activists from across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
Organizers said the flotilla set sail from the Turkish port of Marmaris as part of a renewed effort to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza despite repeated interceptions.
Pro-Palestinian protesters across Europe called for stronger international action, with many holding banners demanding an end to the blockade and expressing solidarity with Gaza’s civilian population.
The latest wave of demonstrations highlights growing international attention on the humanitarian situation in Gaza and increasing political pressure surrounding maritime aid missions to the region.
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